Local Fire Depts In Line For State Help

Two local fire departments will receive senate funding to assist with expenses from the June flood and a third will be able to make improvements to its station, Senator James L. Seward announced today. He was joined by local fire officials at the Unadilla Fire House in making the announcement.

The Unadilla and Otego Fire Departments will each get $20,000 to help cover costs related to their response to the June 27 flood, and the West Oneonta Fire District is in line for $20,000 to assist with renovations and repairs to its building on County Route 8 in West Oneonta.

"The senate funding helps local programs and meets locally identified community needs that would not be possible without state assistance," Senator Seward said. "When it comes to local governments and fire departments in particular, the senate aid reduces pressure on tax rates and tight budgets, especially in rural areas."

Seward said the money was included in the current state budget.

"The communities of Unadilla and Otego were especially hard hit by the June flooding," Seward said, "and I am confident that not every dollar the departments spent will be covered by FEMA or other emergency aid. This funding will help cover any gaps and allow the departments some financial breathing room.